Why might some survivalists prefer natural navigation over digital tools?

Understanding Natural Navigation

Natural navigation, also known as traditional navigation, uses available environmental features to determine direction and location. This method relies on observations of the sun, moon, stars, and landscape to create a mental picture of one’s surroundings. By learning to read these signs, survivalists can navigate using minimal equipment, making it an ideal skill for wilderness enthusiasts and outdoor professionals.

Using the Sun for Navigation

The sun is a primary reference point for natural navigation, as its position in the sky indicates direction. During the day, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, providing a consistent reference point. By observing the sun’s shadow, a person can determine direction. To do this, they need to know the approximate time of day and the sun’s altitude. In general, the higher the sun, the more south it is, while the lower it is, the more north it is. For example, at solar noon (when the sun is highest in the sky), a person can estimate direction using the following rough guidelines: 15-20 degrees south of true south at 10:00 AM, 0 degrees (true south) at 12:00 PM, and 15-20 degrees north of true south at 2:00 PM.